Delhi has witnessed a significant improvement in air quality, leading to the removal of the stringent GRAP 4 restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR). The air quality index (AQI) levels have dropped, and as a result, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 4 has been revoked. Under this level of the action plan, several stringent measures were imposed, such as a complete ban on construction activities and restrictions on the entry of non-essential polluting trucks in the city. However, the measures under GRAP 1, 2, and 3 remain in effect.
The improvement in air quality is attributed to favorable weather conditions, as forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). These conditions, including improved wind speed, have contributed to better air quality levels. The objective of the GRAP measures was to reduce severe pollution levels, focusing on industries, construction activities, and the entry of trucks emitting pollutants.
GRAP 4 Restrictions Lifted
Under GRAP 4, several restrictions were imposed in the Delhi NCR region. These included an outright ban on all construction and demolition activities, restrictions on the entry of non-essential polluting trucks into the city, and the requirement for all schools to operate in hybrid mode, except for classes 10 and 12. These actions aimed to curb the rising pollution levels, which had reached hazardous thresholds.
Now, with the air quality showing signs of improvement, these restrictions have been lifted. The lifting of GRAP 4 restrictions is a welcome relief for residents and businesses, particularly those in construction and logistics, who had been facing significant challenges due to the stringent measures. However, it is important to note that restrictions under GRAP levels 1, 2, and 3 will continue to remain in place until further notice.
Air Quality Levels in Delhi
On Tuesday, Delhi recorded an AQI of 401, which further increased to 403 by 7 am. However, after rainfall in the evening, a slight improvement in air quality was observed, which helped bring the AQI levels down, leading to the removal of GRAP 4 restrictions. Despite this improvement, the overall air quality remained at a critical level, and residents were advised to continue taking necessary precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions.
On December 16, Delhi’s AQI levels had crossed 400, triggering the implementation of GRAP 4 restrictions. The decision to lift these restrictions comes after the air quality improved following favorable meteorological conditions. The IMD and IITM’s forecasts suggest that the air quality may continue to improve, but the overall pollution levels are expected to remain a concern in the coming weeks.
Impact of GRAP Measures
The GRAP measures have played a crucial role in curbing the extreme pollution levels during the peak of Delhi’s air quality crisis. During the implementation of GRAP 4, all construction work was halted, and the entry of non-essential trucks into the city was restricted. Additionally, educational institutions had to adopt hybrid modes of teaching, which impacted students, parents, and educators alike.
These actions were necessary to reduce the severe health risks posed by the extremely high levels of pollution. The restrictions, although difficult, were seen as essential to protecting the public from the harmful effects of poor air quality, which can cause respiratory problems, heart diseases, and even premature deaths.
The lifting of these restrictions will come as a relief, but experts warn that the situation could change rapidly, depending on the weather and pollution levels. As the winter season progresses, there is still the possibility of an increase in pollution due to factors such as stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial activities.
Delhi’s Ongoing Struggle with Pollution
Delhi’s pollution crisis has been a long-standing issue, and despite various measures taken over the years, the city continues to face poor air quality, especially during the winter months. Factors like crop burning in neighboring states, heavy traffic, and industrial emissions contribute to the worsening air quality in Delhi. Even though the lifting of GRAP 4 restrictions provides temporary relief, experts emphasize that long-term solutions are necessary to tackle the root causes of pollution.
The Delhi government and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) continue to monitor air quality and issue advisories to help the public take precautions. However, experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of comprehensive policies that address the sources of pollution, such as better waste management, cleaner transportation options, and stricter enforcement of emission norms.
For now, residents of Delhi can breathe a sigh of relief as the immediate threat of severe pollution has eased. However, the need for continued vigilance and action remains, as the battle against air pollution is far from over.
